Chapter 2 — Surrender

To place yourself into the Lord’s care and keeping may not always come easily to you. To yield to his will and wisdom is also often a test of faith, but this is exactly what Jesus calls you to do.

However, as you struggle with giving yourself completely to Christ, don’t forget that surrender is a gateway to a rested heart. When we realize that the one calling us to yield to him is the Lord of the universe for whom nothing is too hard, we can rest in his power. When we understand that he is the Lord Jesus who proved his love for us by dying on the cross for our sin, we can be assured he will exercise his power in loving ways. We must remember it is the Lord of power and love who calls us to yield to him. I encourage you to open the gate of surrender and find a more rested heart.

“…not my will but yours be done.”

— Luke 22:43

What is most dear to you? What is most important to you? What do you live for? What would you die for? If you could describe your life as a success, what would it be like?

The reason I ask is that the greatest stresses in our lives are often caused by threats to what we hold most dear. When what we live for is at risk, it is nearly impossible to have a rested heart.

Jesus models what to do when what we hold dear is threatened. He surrendered his life to the care of his Father. He was in anguish, sweating great drops of blood, knowing that his life would soon be taken and the sin of the world put upon him. Ye he prayed, “Not my will but yours be done.” After Jesus surrendered his will, he was able to move with strength and grace to the accomplishment of his purpose. He was able to handle the physical and verbal attacks with grace and dignity. He was able to minister to the thief on the cross. He was able to fulfill his commitment to his mother, Mary. The grace and strength he displayed were won in the Garden of Gethsemane when he prayed, “Not my will but yours be done.”

Is something causing you great worry or stress? Perhaps God is calling you to surrender. Surrender means to release yourself into the care and control of another. Surrender what is dear to you into the care of Christ. Surrender and move forward with grace and strength. His love was proved at the cross. Who better to look after what is dear to you than someone who has demonstrated his love by dying for you?

Prayer starter: Lord Jesus, thank you that your love for me was proved at the cross. Help me surrender what is most precious to me into your care.